A Review on Phytochemical and Nephroprotective Properties of Lamiaceae Species against Diabetic Nephropathy

Abstract

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is one of the most severe microvascular complications of diabetes mellitus and a leading cause of chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal failure worldwide. Persistent hyperglycaemia induces oxidative stress, inflammation, glomerular damage, and renal fibrosis, ultimately resulting in progressive loss of kidney function. Current therapeutic approaches mainly include strict glycaemic control, antihypertensive therapy, renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system inhibitors, SGLT2 inhibitors, and lifestyle modifications. However, these treatments are often associated with limited efficacy and adverse effects, creating a need for safer and more effective alternatives. Medicinal plants from the Lamiaceae family have gained considerable attention because of their rich phytochemical composition and broad pharmacological activities. Species such as Ocimum sanctum, Rosmarinus officinalis, Salvia officinalis, and Teucrium polium possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycaemic, and Reno protective properties. Various in vitro studies, including high glucose-induced mesangial cell injury and podocyte apoptosis assays, along with in vivo streptozotocin-induced diabetic nephropathy models, have demonstrated the potential of these plants to reduce oxidative stress, improve renal biomarkers, and prevent kidney damage. Bioactive compounds such as rosmarinic acid, flavonoids, terpenoids, and phenolic acids contribute significantly to these protective effects. This review highlights the therapeutic potential of Lamiaceae species in the management of diabetic nephropathy and emphasizes their importance as promising candidates for the development of novel plant-based nephroprotective agents.